Mid-century modern illustration of a homemade cleaning spray bottle filled with light blue cleaner, surrounded by lemons, a blue detergent bottle, and a glass vinegar bottle on a colorful retro background with atomic starbursts and geometric shapes.

Looking for a natural, effective, and budget-friendly way to keep your home sparkling clean? This easy homemade all-purpose spray cleaner does it all β€” without harsh chemicals or artificial fragrances. Made with common household ingredients like vinegar, lemon juice, and Dawn dish soap, it cuts grease, dissolves grime, and leaves your kitchen and bathroom surfaces fresh and shiny.

Perfect for cleaning showers, countertops, sinks, and stovetops, this simple cleaner has a light citrus scent that makes cleaning feel almost enjoyable (almost).

Homemade All-Purpose Spray Cleaner

This homemade all-purpose spray cleaner combines Dawn dish soap, lemon juice, vinegar, and water for a powerful, non-toxic way to clean your home. Use it on sinks, countertops, showers, and more for a sparkling clean with a fresh citrus scent.
Prep Time5 minutes
Total Time5 minutes
Keyword: all purpose cleaner, dawn cleaner recipe, diy all purpose cleaner, diy cleaner recipe, diy cleaning spray, eco cleaning tips, eco friendly cleaning, homemade cleaner, homemade cleaning products, homemade disinfectant, lemon vinegar cleaner, natural cleaning solution, natural household cleaner, non toxic cleaner, vinegar and lemon cleaner
Cost: .60 cents

Equipment

  • 1 measuring cup
  • 1 empty spray bottle

Materials

  • 2 oz. Dawn dishwashing liquid
  • 4 oz. lemon juice
  • 8 oz. white vinegar
  • 10 oz. water

Instructions

  • Pour all ingredients into a clean spray bottle and shake gently to combine.
  • Use on most non-porous household surfaces such as countertops, showers, sinks, and stovetops.
  • Wipe clean with a soft cloth or paper towel.

Notes

✨ Note: Avoid using on natural stone surfaces like granite or marble, since vinegar and lemon juice can dull the finish over time.

πŸ’‘ Why It Works

β€’ Dawn dish soap cuts through grease and dirt.
β€’ Lemon juice adds natural antibacterial properties and a pleasant scent.
β€’ White vinegar dissolves soap scum and mineral buildup.
β€’ Water dilutes the mixture for gentle yet powerful cleaning.

Together, they form a non-toxic cleaner that performs just as well as commercial sprays β€” without the chemical fumes or plastic waste.

🏑 Cleaning Tips

β€’ For tough soap scum in the shower, spray and let sit for 5–10 minutes before wiping.
β€’ Keep one bottle in the kitchen and one in the bathroom for quick cleanups.
β€’ Use distilled water for longer shelf life (tap water may reduce freshness).

πŸ’² Estimated Cost Per Bottle

You can make an entire 24-ounce spray bottle of this cleaner for under $1.00 using standard grocery-store prices:
β€’ Dawn dish soap: $0.25
β€’ Lemon juice: $0.20
β€’ Vinegar: $0.15
β€’ Water: practically free

It’s a fraction of the cost of most commercial cleaners β€” and it smells better too.

πŸ§ƒ Storage & Shelf Life

β€’ Store in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight.
β€’ Shake gently before each use to remix ingredients.
β€’ Use within 3 months for best results and maximum freshness.
β€’ If using distilled water, shelf life may extend to 6 months.